I Fight The Battle In Front Of Me

I had polio,

I was aware of every step I took,

measuring each to ensure I didn’t

Fall to the ground

 

It toughened me. I refused to use a cane.

or take the cart ride from the plane.

 

I’ve stood on a mountain peak,

on the floor of valleys below,

ridden the edge

of breaking waves, and dived deep below

and felt the shadow of a whale passing

through

 

I saw the rears

of those who passed me by,

yet kept going

until I

arrived at the place

I decided to go

 

I’ve tried it all,

falling short, yet making  it up

as I go

 

I fight the battle in front of me,

not the one that is now

behind me